Bangkok: Mr. Rangsiman Rome, Chairman of the National Security Committee, Thai Border Affairs, National Strategy and Reform, announced his intention to invite Ms. Paethongtarn to explain a leaked audio clip next week. The clip reportedly involves a conversation with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen. Mr. Rangsiman expressed his willingness to use the Power to Summon Act if she does not attend voluntarily.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Rangsiman also discussed the lack of progress in Cambodia following the Thai Prime Minister's announcement of measures against transnational crime. Although checkpoints are being controlled, proactive measures have not been initiated. He mentioned that oil tanker business is likely conducted between companies and acknowledged satisfaction with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' preparation for potential international legal proceedings.
Mr. Rangsiman further elaborated on the situation along the Thai-Cambodian border, where measures such as cutting off electricity, internet, and oil supply have been modeled after Myanmar's approach. He noted that while Cambodia has cut off electricity at nine points, there is no clear information regarding internet restrictions, and oil exports continue as there are no prohibitions from Thailand.
The lack of proactive measures against call centers has surprised the committee, with the most significant action being the closure of the border. While oil transport via land is restricted due to checkpoint controls, shipping continues unimpeded as no export bans have been imposed.
Mr. Rangsiman expressed satisfaction with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' preparedness for a possible International Court of Justice case, emphasizing the need for caution to prevent Cambodia from escalating disputes to legal battles. He stressed that the conflict is between the governments and should not affect citizens.
The committee is also examining an audio clip suggesting that an influential Cambodian politician ordered an assassination in Thailand. Mr. Rangsiman plans to invite the Thai Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and other officials to discuss the situation, highlighting the severity of any violations of sovereignty.
If the Prime Minister does not cooperate, Mr. Rangsiman is considering invoking the power to summon him. He emphasized the importance of transparency and cooperation in addressing the committee's concerns, while also acknowledging multiple mechanisms to hold the Prime Minister accountable, including parliamentary questions and no-confidence motions.
The committee believes that once the Cambodian side substantiates their claims with evidence, legal action should be taken. Mr. Rangsiman clarified that the committee's work is separate from independent organizations, focusing on political mechanisms within the parliamentary framework.
Regarding potential international disputes, Mr. Rangsiman is confident that the case will not reach the International Court of Justice, given Thailand's stance against its jurisdiction. He commended the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for its diplomatic efforts and underscored the importance of cooperation among government entities.
Mr. Rangsiman emphasized that ongoing measures aim to resolve conflicts without harming Cambodian citizens, advocating for diplomatic solutions and bilateral talks. He highlighted the strategic importance of addressing call center operations as a key aspect of resolving tensions between Thailand and Cambodia.